Alprazolam, otherwise known as Xanax or Bars, is one of the most frequently prescribed anti-anxiety medications in the US. This drug is in the shape of a small, pill-sized tablet that is taken individually.
While relatively common and safe, Xanax does come with adverse effects and the possibility for individuals to become addicted.
In 2013, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported young adults were the most common to use Xanax for non-medical purposes.
Xanax bar abuse is leading to an increase in addiction and overdoses. Abusing or not taking these bars according to prescription can be extremely dangerous.
If a person becomes dependent on taking Xanax bars and tries to stop on their own, they may experience severe withdrawal symptoms.
There can be severe medical complications that can result in death when you try to quit cold turkey or detox on your own.
Continue reading to learn more about the dangers of Xanax and how to get treatment.
What Is Xanax?
Xanax is a benzodiazepine typically used to treat general anxiety disorder (GAD). Xanax is used to enhance chemicals in the brain known as GABA and, when enhanced, helps to calm the brain and nervous system.
The highest dose of a Xanax bar contains t2wo milligrams per dose, but when split in half, it becomes two 1 milligram pieces. The smallest amount is 0.25 milligrams, followed by 0.5 milligrams.
Some individuals will use Xanax to self-medicate, and others simply take them to enjoy the effect of Xanax. That being the calming or relaxing sensation.
Teens and Xanax Abuse
As previously mentioned, the abuse and addiction to Xanax bars are popular among teenagers. It helps them cope with stress, depression, or anxiety in life.
A 2016 study reported that about 70% of teens experimented with drugs and alcohol before the age of 15. Of the drugs that teenagers abused, Xanax was a common one.
Because Xanax relaxes the mind and body, teens often abuse the drug and crave more potent substances. Taking several Xanax bars a day can increase the risk of addiction for teenagers who combine Xanax with alcohol or other drugs.
Dangers of Xanax Bars
Like many prescription drugs, Xanax has a list of side effects, even with a recommended dose. Uncontrolled use of Xanax can lead to side effects exacerbated by excessive use of the drug.
Some people mix Xanax with other drugs such as Valium, along with others like alcohol or marijuana. People who develop tolerance can cause irreparable damage to their bodies both physically and mentally.
Side effects of abusing Xanax include:
- Slurred speech
- lack of coordination and balance
- fatigue
- depression
- changes in appetite and weight
- change in sex drive
- dry mouth
- constipation
- nausea
- mood swings
- seizures
Signs Of Xanax Abuse And Addiction
People abusing Xanax bars can face serious negative consequences from their addiction. From physical to adverse mental health effects, an addiction to Xanax can take a serious toll on your life.
Signs that someone is addicted to Xanax (Bars) include:
- Pills that aren’t prescribed to them
- Various drugs in different colors
- Neglected social obligations
- Bad relationships with family and friends
- Struggling financially due to buying Xanax
- Strange behavior like hiding belongings
- Constant fatigue
Finding Treatment For Xanax Addiction
Our addiction treatment center in Los Angeles specializes in treating those battling substance abuse and addiction. Xanax can produce a severe and dangerous physical dependence. For this reason, it is necessary to get the proper treatment.
It’s crucial to treat addiction as early as possible. At No Matter What Recovery, our treatment programs are individualized for each client. To learn more about how we can help, contact us today at (323) 515-1396.
